June 11, 2010

33rd round draft pick Jamaal Hollis (RHRP) close to signing

But Hollis does have what Simonds called a “plus-plus fastball” that runs in the 92-93 mph range. “In the minor leagues, the focus is a little more on development,” Simonds said. “In college, we have a limited number of games. “He’s got some good run on his fastball,” he said of Hollis. “If he picks up a couple miles on his fastball and picks up a second pitch, gets more consistency with his change-up or curve, who knows what will happen?” Hollis said he agrees that his “arm strength” is what attracted the scouts, “that and a little bit of athleticism.”

Hollis said he has talked with a White Sox scout and is waiting for the contract papers in the mail. “I’m definitely signing, for sure,” he said. “Right now I’m just sitting back and being patient.”